By Blake Jackson
As fall gets underway, New York Governor Kathy Hochul announced the launch of the NY State of Cider campaign, a statewide effort aimed at promoting the state’s apple orchards, cider producers, restaurants, retailers, hospitality businesses and rural communities.
The initiative seeks to strengthen New York’s reputation as a leading cider destination while creating additional opportunities for agricultural tourism and local economic development.
“Let’s raise a glass and toast New York’s cider producers. Our world-class apple growers, innovative cider makers, and vibrant rural communities have made New York a leader in hard cider production," Governor Hochul said.
"The NY State of Cider campaign will showcase these assets to residents and visitors from around the country while creating new opportunities for farms, small businesses, restaurants, and tourism destinations. Through the New York Cider Association’s partnership with Airbnb and the State’s investment in the future of agricultural tourism, we're inviting more people to experience the very best of New York," Hochul added.
A central part of the campaign is a new partnership between the New York Cider Association and Airbnb. The organizations will promote cider-focused travel through an online destination guide highlighting five cider regions throughout the state.
The guide will connect visitors with accommodations, cideries, orchards, restaurants, bottle shops and nearby attractions.
The campaign is designed to encourage travelers to experience New York’s agricultural communities while supporting tourism-related businesses and rural economies.
Visitors will also be able to combine cider experiences with outdoor recreation, scenic destinations, and other local attractions.
The initiative was initially outlined in Hochul’s 2026 State of the State agenda and is part of broader efforts to strengthen New York agriculture, promote tourism and support small businesses.
By connecting travelers with farms, producers and local businesses, the campaign aims to highlight the people and communities behind New York’s cider industry.
New York has more active cideries than any other state and ranks second nationally in apple production. The state’s orchard and cider industry generates more than $1.8 billion in annual economic activity, while supporting jobs, preserving working farmland and contributing to local communities.
The Airbnb partnership also reflects increasing interest in rural travel. Airbnb reports that 86 percent of travelers are interested in visiting rural communities, while nearly two-thirds of its guests travel within 300 miles of home.
The new New York guide is intended to make it easier for visitors to discover the state’s cider regions and the agricultural, culinary and recreational experiences surrounding them.
Photo Credit: pexels-enginakyurt
Categories: New York, Government & Policy